Luggage Tips for Safe Travel

Ever had your luggage
lost during a trip? Heard horrors stories about lost luggage from
others? Well, losing your luggage is not the only thing that can happen
to your bags and their contents while traveling. Your luggage could be
broken, broken into or, even, stolen. To minimize the risk of these
things happening to your bags and ruining your trip, follow the luggage
tips below.

The first thing to consider is the type
of luggage you use. While the idea of traveling light is appealing, you
should give priority to luggage that is sturdy and durable. Checked
luggage is not always handled appropriately. This may result in parts
of the suitcase breaking or opening unexpectedly.

Even with sturdy luggage, avoid over packing. The pressure may lead to
a broken zipper or busted seam, especially if dropped. As an extra
safety measure, place a protective strap around each bag.

You should never pack valuables such as jewelry, money or
travelers cheques in your checked luggage. Extra glasses or medications
should be packed in your carryon or placed in your briefcase or purse.

If you will be traveling with sensitive or proprietary
documents, double envelope the information and hand carry it. Placing
such important items in your checked luggage would place them at risk
of being lost or stolen.

To facilitate the return of your luggage in case it is lost
during your trip, put your name and address inside each bag. Also, be
sure that your luggage is tagged with covered tags
that protect your address from open observation. If possible, use a
business address and telephone number to avoid exposing your personal
information.

All bags should be locked with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved luggage locks. Travel Sentry and Safe Skies have an arrangement with TSA to supply 'accepted and recognized' locks.

If you travel with more than one suitcase, use a different
combination for each piece of luggage. For bags with double locks, set
each lock to a different combination.

Check with the airline and/or your personal insurance company regarding any lost luggage coverage.
Research the airline you plan to use concerning procedures for
recovering lost luggage. This way, if it happens, you will know exactly
where to go and what to expect.

Finally, you should never leave your bags unattended. Don't
even turn your back to your luggage. It only takes a few seconds for
someone to steal your bag and disappear in the crowd.